THE DRAWING BOARD-September 2009

A mountain retreat takes advantage of the shallow slope of the land

Sited on a long, narrow clearing between a stand of maple trees and a quiet pond, this mountain retreat takes advantage of a small area of shallowly sloped land. Wraparound porches will welcome guests at the main entry and provide a place for outdoor dining and private living outside the master suite. A timber-framed, structural insulated panel home, it will be extremely energy-efficient while exposing the simple rhythm of its structure. With the majority of glazing facing south, passive heat gains will be realized as the cast concrete, radiant slab serves as a thermal battery. Designed for the builder/owner as a two-bedroom home, two lofts will double as overflow sleeping accommodations, while the central “life room” takes advantage of the timber frame’s full 2-story height. It is to be finished with board-and-batten cedar siding and standing-seam metal roofing, further tying it to the agrarian vernacular to which its simple form alludes. The retreat is laid out for simple comfort whether visited during spring rains, the heat of summer, or the heart of ski season.

Architect: David G. Johnson, Skaala, LLC
Builder/Owner: Carpenters and Co., LLC
Square Footage: 2,100
Completion slated: Fall 2009